AO scopes and SF scopes are two popular options for parallax correction in riflescopes. Both allow shooters to fine-tune focus for better accuracy, and understanding their differences helps you choose the right tool.
An AO scope adjusts parallax with a rotating ring near the front, offering precise focus control, especially beneficial for airguns shooters who need accurate parallax adjustments at close ranges. While the front-mounted adjustment may be less convenient for quick field changes, it's ideal for stationary shooting positions, making it a reliable choice for benchrest and precision work. AO scopes are also typically lightweight, which is advantageous for compact rifles or extended shooting sessions.
An SF scope, with its side-mounted dial, enables quick and convenient parallax correction without shifting position, making it popular among long-range shooters and hunters in fast-paced environments. While optimized for mid-to-long range, some models may offer limited focus at closer distances.
Specifically, for spring-piston rifles—especially break-barrel types—the scope is subjected to high recoil that can easily damage delicate optics. For these guns, a simple and robust scope design is essential, featuring:
One-piece tube with thick walls and minimal seams – withstands heavy recoil and reduces the risk of damage.
Etched glass reticle – improves durability under shock.
Elevation and windage with locking turret or zero-stop – prevents accidental changes and maintains zero.
Built-in AO adjustment – simple design with fewer moving parts for reliable focusing.
Fixed or low-variable magnification – more stable under high recoil conditions.
VictOptics SOI 3-9×40 AO (VIOC-05) – Clear, accurate shots with close-range 5-yard AO adjustment, 5-level red/green illuminated reticle, and simple 1-inch tube design.
VictOptics SOI 4-12×40 AO (VIOC-06) – All VIOC-05 features plus higher magnification, 30mm tube and AO adjustment starting from 10 yards for longer-range versatility.
Actually, all SOI MPVO scops are built with a 1000G shock‑rated design, engineered to withstand the harsh, two-way recoil typical of high-power spring-piston break-barrel air rifles, ensuring consistent performance even under demanding use.
For more infomation about how to choose the right scope for airguns and air rifles, go check this helpful blog.
The Victoptics SOI series uses a 1-inch tube diameter, ensuring broad compatibility with standard mounting systems.
Explore more from Victoptics SOI series: SOI 1.5-5x20 (VIOC-01), SOI 2-7x32 (VIOC-02), SOI 3-9x40 (VIOC-03), SOI 4-12x40 (VIOC-04), SOI 3-9x40 AO (VIOC-05).
